European High-Speed Railways Network 2040 – A Strategic, Social and Industrial Project for the European Union

Key Points

The EESC:

• considers that the development of a genuine European High-Speed Railways Network by 2040 must become a strategic priority for the Union, as ambitious as the Single Market, the euro and the Green Deal;

• believes that strengthening West–East and North–South connectivity, particularly in central and peripheral regions, is essential to reinforce economic, social and territorial cohesion across the EU; 

• stresses that a coordinated EU approach can strengthen industrial ecosystems, stimulate innovation and secure high-quality employment throughout the value chain;

• considers that

  • cross border corridors with high European added value should be prioritised;

  • governance must be transparent and innovative financing instruments should be developed, including strategic use of ETS revenue to support both cross border connectivity and the modernisation of national rail networks;

  • interoperability must become a non-negotiable objective, and digitalisation and artificial intelligence should be fully integrated; 

  • High-Speed Railways Network must remain accessible, inclusive and user-oriented, while Europe must urgently invest in skills, vocational training, apprenticeships, reskilling and workforce development.